There are taboos and restrictions relating to menstruation. These restrictions limit girls’ choices and actions during menstruation.

Speaking at a discussion programme organised here today Dr Shakira Reza Nova, a public health specialist and researcher from Bangladesh, advised Nepali media to raise consciousness, stimulate public discussion, articulate public aspirations, disseminate information and reflect on social norms to break taboos related to menstruation. She highlighted the role of media to promote sexual and reproductive health.

Most of these taboos create a negative environment that impacts on the opportunity for open dialogue and support for girls during their periods. Therefore, media should play an important role in breaking the culture of silence, stigma and discrimination associated with menstruation, she said.

A version of this article appears in print on October 26, 2017 of The Himalayan Times.